Opposition defends blocking ICAC bill

The South Australian Government says legislation for an independent commission against corruption (ICAC) is unlikely to pass State Parliament until next year.

The Government had been willing to accept an amendment from Family First's Rob Brokenshire to end a parliamentary deadlock.

But it now says it does not have enough support in the Upper House because the Opposition refuses to back the amendment.

Opposition justice spokesman Stephen Wade says it cannot accept a compromise amendment from Family First as it would mean the person appointed to head the commission would not be subject to appropriate scrutiny by the Parliament.

The planned commission will be able to use listening devices, check personal details and search properties as part of its investigative powers.

The SA Government has set aside $32 million over five years to establish the ICAC.